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Matt Dumba's Acquisition May Have Screwed Over Top Penguins Prospect Harrison Brunicke
Photo credit: Edit from Yahoo Sports
Now that the Penguins have acquired Matt Dumba, the ice time that top prospect Harrison Brunicke will receive could be at risk, and his spot is in jeopardy.
The Pittsburgh Penguins' recent acquisition of Matt Dumba added one more name to a blue line that was already heavy to begin with. That shouldn't prevent Harrison Brunicke from making the NHL roster on the heels of training camp, though, or will it?
Harrison Brunicke, a second-round pick from last year's draft, turned heads last preseason by nearly cracking the opening night lineup. He's only improved since then and has little left to prove in junior.
Harrison Brunicke cannot be sent to the AHL next season
Due to age restrictions, he can't play in the AHL, so it's either back to junior or onto the Penguins' roster. Given his skillset and development, the decision should be obvious.
Brunicke stands out for his defensive savviness, a high-end commodity on Pittsburgh's blue lines of late. He disrupts plays consistently, is well-positioned, and can use his stick.
Brunicke is a very calm defenseman, something the Penguins really need
Matt Dumba offers experience, while Brunicke offers calm and hockey smarts, which many think the Penguins lacked.
Penguins fans have witnessed some vicious defensive efforts over the past couple of seasons. If Brunicke is on the roster, it could be their first glimmer of hope for improved, more consistent defending.
His work this preseason will be important, but he's already shown he's in the NHL conversation. Don't be surprised when Brunicke makes a strong case to be on the ice opening night.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 12 | 98 ANSWERS Matt Dumba's Acquisition May Have Screwed Over Top Penguins Prospect Harrison Brunicke Will Matt Dumba limit Harrison Brunicke's ice time? | ||
| Yes | 60 | 61.2 % |
| No | 38 | 38.8 % |
| List of polls | ||